This work argues that the re-assessment of elements derived from Gandhian thought exhibited by post-development theory and practice, provides a basis for a poly-vocal and pluralist vision of emancipation. This understanding of emancipation is significant in moving beyond the rationalist legacy of modernist constructions of emancipation to encompass a broader understanding of reason. It incorporates experience and knowledge conventionally described under the rubric of ''spirituality'' as viable and emancipatory forms of rationality. The re-enchanted emancipatory vision thus created opens new possibilities for locating non-material contributions to liberatory theory and practice. Drawing on activist practices and arguments, it locates these within the convergence of a number of academic disciplines and demonstrates how interdisciplinary analysis is essential for understanding the complexity of contemporary social movmetn activism.

Peter Cox is a sociologist based in the Faculty of Social Science at the University of Chester. His specialist area of research is in social movement activism and social change.